About scopolamine
Scopolamine is considered an anticholinergic antiemetic, which reduces the secretions of certain organs, including the stomach and intestines, to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Scopolamine can help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness or from anesthesia given during surgery. Scopolamine is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including Transderm Scop.
Scopolamine may be prescribed as a transdermal patch. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed scopolamine, be sure to complete the full course of the anticholinergic unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the anticholinergic may not fully treat your nausea and vomiting.
Scopolamine uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for scopolamine, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online health care professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care professional may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Motion sickness
The scopolamine patch is FDA-approved to treat nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
Post-operative nausea and vomiting
The scopolamine patch is FDA-approved to treat post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) associated with recovery from anesthesia and/or opiate analgesia and surgery.
Scopolamine side effects
The side effects associated with taking scopolamine are typically mild. Most Scopolamine side effects are associated with dry mouth. Scopolamine has some common side effects. They may include:
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Drowsiness or dizziness
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe dizziness
Eye pain or redness
Difficulty urinating
You should call your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of scopolamine in young children under age 18 is not advised.
How to take scopolamine
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your scopolamine prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Scopolamine can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The transdermal patch should be applied to a hairless area of skin just behind the ear. In some cases, if directed by your doctor, health care professional may apply the transdermal patch before your surgery.
To prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery, the transdermal patch is usually applied in the evening before surgery. Keep wearing the transdermal patch for 24 hours after your surgery. Then, remove it and throw it away.
Avoid wearing more than one patch at a time. You can wear the transdermal patch for up to three days. If the patch falls off, replace it with a new patch.
What to avoid while taking scopolamine
Scopolamine has 342 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as other drugs.
Possible drug interactions with the scopolamine patch include:
Medications used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental illnesses
Cold or allergy medicine, including Benadryl
Medicine used to treat Parkinson's disease
Bronchodilator asthma medication
Other medications used to treat stomach problems or motion sickness
Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol. Alcohol may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and other adverse effects. Avoid exceeding recommended dosages, and make sure to avoid activities that require mental alertness.
Medication alternatives to scopolamine
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another antiemetic or anti-nausea medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Motion sickness
Post-operative nausea and vomiting
Maxidex (dexamethasone)
Aprepitant
Ramosetron
Scopolamine prescription FAQs
How much does scopolamine cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, the extended-release scopolamine patch costs around $31 for four patches without insurance. Scopolamine is a generic brand, and brand names may cost more.
How can I refill my scopolamine prescription?
To refill your scopolamine prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take scopolamine?
To make sure the scopolamine patch is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
Glaucoma
Liver or kidney disease
A history of seizures
Mental illness
Severe preeclampsia
Urination problems, such as urinary retention
Intestinal obstruction
How long is scopolamine in your system?
The effects of the scopolamine patch wear off about nine hours after the patch is removed. However, the effects of scopolamine can stay in your system for days or weeks after removing the patch.
How long does scopolamine last after you take it off?
The effects of the scopolamine patch last for around nine hours after removing the patch.
How far in advance should you put on a scopolamine patch?
To prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, apply one patch behind the ear at least four hours in advance. For post-operative nausea and vomiting, your health care professional may recommend applying the patch behind other ear the night before surgery.
What happens if I miss a dose of scopolamine?
Since the transdermal patch is used when needed, you may not be on a regular dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for the next dose. Use only one patch at a time.
What happens if I take too much scopolamine?
If you've taken too much scopolamine, call your doctor immediately or contact your local poison control center. If you experience overdose symptoms, such as severe drowsiness, vision problems, or hallucinations, seek emergency medical help.
3 simple steps to request your scopolamine prescription today

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Book a scopolamine prescription appointment.
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Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your scopolamine prescription.
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Step 3
Pick up your scopolamine prescription.
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Scopolamine prescription pricing details
How pricing works
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Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
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Paying without insurance
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$14.99/month
First month free
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Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
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Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Scopolamine prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Transderm Scop medication guide. Accessed on November 20, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/017874s043s044lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Scopolamine (Transdermal Route). Accessed on November 20, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/scopolamine-transdermal-route/description/drg-20072848
MedlinePlus. Scopolamine Transdermal Patch. Accessed on November 20, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682509.html